Have you been in a car accident and are wondering about your compensation options? The team at Shillen, Mackall, Seldon, and Spicer is here to dive into the types of compensation you’re entitled to after a car accident.
The aftermath of any car crash is a physically and emotionally fragile time for most people, and we are here to help you collect the largest settlement to which you are entitled. We are here to handle your injury case so you can focus on what’s important: regaining your health and happiness.
What Type of Damages Can I Recover After a Car Accident?
Crash victims in Vermont are entitled to compensation, but you may wonder exactly what you can sue for after a car accident. A personal injury attorney reviews all the details of your case to ensure you get the settlement you deserve.
While none of these damages are guaranteed, rest assured, the attorneys at Shillen, Mackall, Seldon and Spicer will fight to get you the maximum compensation available.
Damage Types Allowed in Vermont
Crash victims can incur thousands of dollars in bills before the insurance companies reach a settlement. Insurers drag out the process to get you to agree to a smaller compensation package.
These are some of the damage types you can recover:
Medical expenses — From your initial visit to a provider through your final rehab appointment.
Repairs—You are entitled to money for damages, and we will fight to get you the maximum amount available. You may also be entitled to a rental car or other transportation while your vehicle is being repaired.
Pain and suffering— One of the important reasons you need our firm on your side is to ensure you win the most compensation for your pain, suffering, and emotional anguish.
Damages You May Collect After a Vermont Car Accident
When it comes to car accidents, Vermont is a “fault” state, which means the driver who caused the wreck is at fault, and it’s their responsibility to cover your damages. However, we have the “comparative fault” standard, which states that you may still be eligible for compensation if you were responsible for less than 50% of your injuries. Here’s an example.
Suppose the court agrees that you suffered $10,000 in damages, but they also determine that you bear 25% responsibility for the crash. Your total compensation is reduced by 25% to $7500 in that case.
What Are the Different Types of Damages That a Car Crash Victim May Be Entitled To?
Three types of car accident claims help you receive compensatory damages — money for both economic and non-economic losses and punitive damages.
Economic Damages
The basic compensation standard is economic damages — money for the actual cash losses you have suffered — based on your verified expenses. Accident victims can be out-of-pocket for thousands of dollars before receiving compensation — having their car towed away from the accident site, for example, or visiting the emergency room.
If you can’t work after the accident, you are also entitled to compensation for your lost wages or business opportunities. If you’re not able to maintain your responsibilities at home, you can also recover the costs of domestic help.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are not quantifiable. This compensation is for your pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of companionship, loss of the ability to participate in activities, and other intangible factors.
Punitive Damages
The courts impose punitive damages on guilty drivers to discourage them from repeating the reckless behavior that caused the accident. Passing on a solid yellow line or running a stop sign are the types of intentional driving that result in extra damages.
Don’t hesitate to contact us at Shillen, Mackall, Seldon, and Spicer if you need a personal injury attorney. We are compassionate and passionate advocates for our clients and stand up to the insurance companies so you quickly get all the compensation you deserve.
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